Monthly Archives: May 2013

It was a sunny day as we gathered in Montezuma, Indiana to bid a fond farewell to JCL/SCL legend – our mentor and friend – Denny Bartlow. A gentle breeze was blowing, flowers were blooming, and everything was green. It serves as a reminder to me that although this is the end of our time on earth with Denny, the two organizations that he loved so much are still so alive and vital to all of us.

As people gathered that day, every time I looked up I saw new faces. There were Indiana teachers, retirees, and former state officers from one end of the state to the other – as difficult as it was for them to get there that day due to scheduling conflicts, personal issues, etc. Then there were those who traveled even greater distances; I saw faces from Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Texas. Some of those people truly went above and beyond to say one last goodbye to Denny. I would love to name everyone, but I am afraid that I would inadvertently miss someone. I would like to say a special “thank you” to Ed Long for the donation of his JCL and SCL pins so that Denny’s Indiana State University Sycamores sweatshirt and Cubs cap could look complete.

I had the privilege of speaking on behalf of the JCL and SCL at Denny’s services and as I looked out at the sea of faces in that packed church, I saw so many faces that I knew through those two organizations. As I spoke, looking out at those faces, I began to picture the faces of the all of those whose comments I have seen on Facebook and also those whom I have had the privilege of meeting at Denny’s side over the years at NJCL State Chairs’ Luncheons, “That’s Entertainment,” Sponsors and Chaperones Receptions, and all of the other NJCL events and all of the IJCL certamina and other events (including bus trips) – even those whose faces I could only imagine from his stories. Forget the church – Montezuma herself might not have been able to contain them all!

The outpouring of love for Denny has been a sight to behold and I have been privileged to have seen it, as much as I have been privileged to have been called a friend and colleague by Denny. He is now resting in “God’s country” as he used to say. Imagine that we’ve reached the state line; there’s the crackling of the intercom and Denny is announcing that we’re back in Indiana. This weekend, if you are a race fan – or via YouTube link if you are not – when you hear “Back Home Again in Indiana,” please think of Denny; I know I will.

Dennis “Denny” Bartlow – our “Mr. IJCL” – has died. He had a long history with JCL, attending 51 NJCL and 52 IJCL conventions. His most recent IJCL Convention being held at his beloved Indiana State University where he was often to be found cheering “Go Sycamores!” He enjoyed planning and attending the SCL reunions, travelling to visit family and friends, attending various sporting events – notably those of his Sycamores and the Florida Gators. He was also very active in his church – whether it involved singing in the choir, serving on various committees, or helping with the youth.

Although Denny spent much of his career living in Illinois, his heart was in Indiana. He will be buried in his hometown of Montezuma, thus being “Back Home Again in Indiana.”

Funeral information: Visitation will be 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, May 24, 2013, at the Montezuma Presbyterian Church, with services there at noon.